SSDI benefits are designed to help provide financial support to those who are unable to work due to a disability. This benefit is funded through payroll taxes, to be eligible, individuals have to have paid into the system through their work history. Many people wonder if the benefits they are receiving can extend to their spouses. This blog will answer this question and go over the eligibility requirements and calculation methods for spousal benefits, so households can maximize their overall income.
What Are SSDI Spousal Benefits?
The SSDI program does allow spouses of SSDI recipients to receive monthly benefits based on the earnings record of the primary SSDI beneficiary. This assists with keeping the household stable, since a spouse may be missing out on work as well by doing caretaking activities for the spouse with the disability.
Learn More: If Someone Dies Does a Spouse Get Their SSDI Benefits?
Eligibility Criteria for Spouses
To be eligible for SSDI spousal benefits, the spouse must meet the following criteria:
- Marriage Status: The individual must be married to someone who is receiving SSDI benefits. Even a divorced spouse may be eligible if the marriage lasted at least 10 years.
- Age Requirement: The spouse must be at least 62 years old to begin receiving spousal benefits. However, if the spouse is caring for a disabled child under the age of 16 or a child who is disabled, they may be able to receive benefits earlier.
- Duration of Disability: The disabled worker must have been receiving SSDI benefits for a certain period. Typically, the worker must have paid into the Social Security system for a sufficient number of years to qualify for SSDI.
- Income Limitations: SSDI spousal benefits are also subject to the Social Security Administration’s rules regarding earnings. If the spouse continues to work, their earnings may reduce the amount of SSDI spousal benefits they can receive.
How Are Spousal Benefits Calculated?
The amount that a spouse can receive from SSDI benefits is calculated as a percentage of the disabled worker’s monthly payment. Oftentimes, this amount is up to 50% of the primary beneficiary’s SSDI payment. It is important to note that this percentage changes depending on the specific circumstances.
Below are some factors that may affect the benefit amount:
- Spouse’s Own Work Record: If the spouse is eligible for benefits based on their own earnings history, Social Security will determine whether the personal benefit or spousal benefit offers a higher payment and award the greater of the two.
- Early Retirement: If a spouse begins receiving benefits before reaching their full retirement age, the spousal benefit could be reduced. Full retirement age is determined by the spouse’s year of birth and typically ranges from 66 to 67.
- Family Maximum Benefits: If there are other dependents receiving benefits, the total amount paid to the family is determined under the Social Security Administration’s “Family Maximum” rule. This could affect the spousal benefit amount.
- Application Requirements: To claim spousal benefits, the spouse must apply and meet eligibility criteria, which include the duration of the marriage (at least one year). Additional conditions apply if the couple is divorced, including the length of the marriage (usually 10 years) and the status of remarriage.
Read More: Tips for Managing Your Finances While Waiting for SSDI Approval
Get The Financial Support You Need
Spousal benefits can be significantly helpful for families by offering additional financial support to the entire family. When one family member has a disability, it can cause financial distress for the entire family, which the Social Security Administration recognizes. It is important for families to understand how spousal benefits work and the eligibility requirements so they can get all the financial support they need.
If you have any questions about applying for SSDI or spousal benefits, Tabak Law is here to help. Our firm specializes in helping individuals and families understand and access Social Security benefits. Contact us today for personalized assistance and support throughout the application process.
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